About your bill

How business rates are calculated and shown in your annual notification or business rates bill.

The calculation of the bill is done by:

• Multiplying the rateable value of the property by a multiplier, which is set by the government each year, to find the basic amount
• Applying the transitional arrangement scheme to this basic amount
• Adjusting this amount to allow for any periods of time when the property was unoccupied and exempt or where a relief, such as small business rate relief, should be given

The rateable value is based on rental values and is assessed every five years. It is the Valuation Office Agency who decides the rateable value for each business property. They can provide advice if you think your assessment is too high.

The transitional arrangement scheme limits the increases and reductions in rate bills. The scheme can be quite complex and an explanation of it in relation to your property can be provided by the Business Rate section.

There may be a number of adjustments to your bill, many giving reductions, for example Small Business Rate Relief, Mandatory Relief or Discretionary Rate Relief.

If you need to contact us to tell us that your circumstances have changed.